Substation Electrician or Journeyman Lineman

Northwestern Energy; Billings (MT); On-site; USD 81,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

NorthWestern Energy in Billings, MT seeks a Substation Electrician or Journeyman Lineman to build and maintain substation equipment. The role requires a Journeyman Electrician or Lineman credential, a valid CDL or ability to obtain one, and a strong safety record.

The position involves overnight travel up to 80%, occasional on-call shifts, and potential leadership responsibilities as a Sub-Foreman. Competitive union rates apply.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Journeyman Electrician or Journeyman Lineman certification
• Valid CDL or ability to obtain CDL within 6 months of hire
• Satisfactory driving record and good safety record
• Willingness to travel overnight up to 80%
• Ability to obtain crane operator certification

Responsibilities

• Construct and maintain substation electrical equipment
• Troubleshoot substation issues and service faults
• Perform rubber gloving for safe voltage work
• Erect steel to modify substation structures
• Install or repair transformers, breakers, re-closers and related equipment
• Document inspections and paperwork with computer systems
• Operate heavy equipment like digger/derrick, cranes and bucket trucks
• Assist in emergency responses and lead in safety situations

Skills

Good safety record

CDL eligible or CDL

Lifting 75 lbs capability

Education

Journeyman Electrician or Journeyman Lineman

Job description

Substation Electrician or Journeyman Lineman

Work Location: Billings, MT

Requisition: 5107

Pay range: Substation Electrician Union Rate $58.74 Journeyman Lineman Union Rate $61.39

Employment Status: Regular Full-time

Posting closes: November 16, 2026

Job Specifications

This regular full-time position in Billings, MT requires a high school diploma or equivalent and qualification as a Journeyman Electrician or Journeyman Lineman. Candidates must demonstrate and maintain a good safety record, have a satisfactory driving record, and hold a valid Commercial Driver's License or obtain one within six months of hire. The role includes lifting and manipulating equipment weighing up to 75 pounds, overnight travel up to 80%, overtime and on-call work, and residence within a company-approved area for emergency response.

Position Summary

The Substation Electrician or Journeyman Lineman may work alone or with others and will construct and maintain substation electrical equipment. They work individually and/or closely with Substation Electricians, Lineman Transmission, Operators, and the Foreman. They may be required to function short-term as a Sub-Foreman with increased responsibilities for supervision, planning, completion of paperwork, and taking the lead for job safety.

Pay Range: Substation Electrician Union Rate $58.74 Journeyman Lineman Union Rate $61.39

Location: Billings, MT

Essential Functions

• Understand audible signals and communicate verbally to maintain safety on worksite and during emergency situations
• Troubleshoot service issues related to substation electric systems and install, maintain, and service substation electrical systems and equipment
• Perform rubber gloving to safely work with all voltage lines and equipment
• Erect steel to replace or increase size of substation structures as needed
• Install or repair transformers, breakers, re-closers, regulators, airbrake switches, hook-stick disconnects, and other substation equipment
• Utilize computers and software programs to document substation inspection results and other work-related paperwork
• Operate heavy equipment including digger/derrick trucks, cranes, skid-steer loaders, forklifts, backhoes and bucket trucks
• Electrical equipment mineral oil sampling, processing and clean up which may include Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
• Work with SF6 gas used in electrical substation equipment
• Work overtime including participating in on call as well as planned evening and weekend shifts; especially in response to acute service needs
• Assume leadership role in response to emergency situations
• Provide education and assistance to the electrician staff at those privately operated substations supported by NorthWestern Energy
• Act as a Sub-Foreman as needed
• Complete all documentation for project planning and completion
• Oversee all individuals within the worksite
• Must be able to individually lift and manipulate needed equipment weighing up to 75 pounds
• You must agree to live within an area approved by the company that allows for adequate response to our customers in call out and emergency situations
• Overnight travel up to 80%
• Drive to installation locations
• Adapt to technological changes as they are implemented
• Perform steel or aluminum welding as part of assembling substation steel structures and bus
• Assist in patrolling and maintaining facilities and lines
• Organize equipment and perform regular and preventative maintenance
• Assist in snow removal to maintain access within substation facilities
• Shovel dirt to back fill trenches for cable conduits

Additional Responsibilities

• Adhere to NorthWestern Energy safety standards and the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics
• Ensure all actions are consistent with NorthWestern Energy's values, mission, and strategic business objectives
• The ability to maintain reliable, and punctual attendance is an essential function of this position, consistent with applicable laws and reasonable accommodation requirements

What Is Required

• Demonstrate and maintain a good safety record
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Journeyman Electrician or Journeyman Lineman. Prefer applicants to have completed an accredited electrical or lineman apprenticeship program
• Valid Commercial Driver's License or the ability to obtain a CDL with 6 months of hire and satisfactory driving record
• Knowledge of applicable codes and safety
• Must be ready and willing to act as a sub-foreman or foreman
• Ability to obtain a crane operator certification

What Is Desired

• Steel and Aluminum fabrication and welding experience is beneficial
• Get Into Energy - Energy Industry Fundamental 2.0 certification is a plus

This description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, duties, and requirements for employees in this position. Job descriptions may and do change periodically. Where positions are covered by a collective bargaining unit agreement, the terms and conditions of the agreement will apply.

About NorthWestern Energy

NorthWestern Energy is a fully regulated electric and natural gas utility serving Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. We employ over 1,600 amazing people and serve over 800,000 customers who are our neighbors in our communities.

At NorthWestern Energy, you'll find more than a job. You'll find the opportunity to make a meaningful impact, grow your career, and be part of a company that values safety, teamwork, innovation, and service. Whether you're working in the field, supporting our customers, or helping shape our future, your work matters. Join us as we invest in our people, strengthen our communities, and build an energy company positioned for long-term success and growth.

Enjoy Our Comprehensive Benefits Package!

Competitive pay with performance-based wage increases and incentive opportunities, 401(k) with up to a 4% company match and up to a 7% non-elective company contribution, tuition reimbursement, paid time off starting on your first day plus 11 paid holidays, paid parental and bereavement leave, company-paid life insurance with additional coverage options, employee assistance and well-being programs, paid volunteer opportunities, training and development programs, and competitive medical, dental, vision, HSA and FSA benefits for employees and eligible dependents. Benefits may vary based on position or collective bargaining agreements.

Candidates must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen, background check, health history questionnaire and a pre-employment physical. If there is anything that may show up in these reports that may conflict with the position requirements, feel free to contact the NorthWestern Energy Human Resource team at [e-mail]

NorthWestern Energy does not sponsor applicants for work visas for this position. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information or any other protected class in accordance with applicable federal or state laws and statutes. In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act, should you have a disability that requires assistance and/or reasonable accommodation with the job application process, please contact the Human Resources department at 1-800-245-6977 or at [e-mail].